lakebum wrote:
I have a BMW 1200ST that weighs 502lbs wet and was looking for a rack to fit in the 2" receiver to be able to have alternate transportation on those trips we do not trailer our car.
Anyone have any experience and/or recommendations for a decent carrier?
Well Ken,
First off, over 500 lbs. on a single receiver is not all that heavy but, when designing an M/C carrier that would carry that kind of weight and bulk, to be more stable and structurally supportive, I'd definitely go for either two, outside receivers or, Three altogether.
Can a single one work, sure it can. Will it be nearly as stable and not flex/bend/wiggle as much as a multi-receiver type as you motor down some of the U.S.A. less than high quality roads and freeways with potholes, concrete seams, abrubt height differences and more, NOPE, not even close.
I've built both and, the time and effort, usually around another hour to two, to set up a carrier with multi-receivers is by far, well worth the effort. Not only will the main platform be considerably more stable but, you'll be able to either add or, purchase additional cross beams for tying down the rear section of the bike, that will also make it more stable.
Acceleration is not of concern here. But, braking, and EMERGENCY braking (as in a "no-notice hot stop") is where you want that bike, and it's 500 lb. of forward inertia, really stabilized. I have observed many bikes with that kind of weight, wiggle, lean and move all over the place as the motor homes entered drive ways, speed bumps, pot holes and more, with only a single receiver.
To me, it's waaaaaaaaaay better to be safe than sorry in this kind of situation. You might not think it's necessary but, it's your bike and, at the end of days drive, you'd still like it on the back of the coach. Your choice.
Scott
